Pictured above: Members from the Bigstone Fire Department receive the toy donation from the Northern Store team.

Generous people in Wabasca-Desmarais, AB have been collaborating with Santa’s helpers for nearly a month to collect toys for kids in need in the community.

It all started in early November when the Home Hardware and the Bigstone Fire Department banded together once again for their annual toy drive, and started collecting gifts and toys for the Wabasca-Desmarais Lions Club’s Santa's Anonymous program.

The successful event took place November 25 at the Home Hardware store. Everyone who participated in this year’s toy drive was treated to hot chocolate and a delicious hot dog or smokie  cooked by David Zabot, Manager of Home Hardware, and also had a chance to enter a draw for some Edmonton Oilers tickets. By the end of the day, over 370 toys were collected!

Wabasca Northern Store was happy to join in once again in this year’s campaign by making a donation of over 160 toys delivered by Jason, Northern Meat Manager and Jeremy, Northern Grocery Manager.

“We have been collaborating with the toy drive organizers since 2018. We plan ahead and start setting aside toys in advance to give away for this especial event. It is heartwarming to know that all children will have something for Christmas this year because of the generosity of this community,” said Rob McKinley, Northern Store Manager.

Zabot expressed his gratitude for the support given for this year’s toys drive and wrote on Facebook, “I thank the Firefighters, I thank Rob McKinley and his crew at Northern, I thank my friends and customers, and I thank those who stop by, give a little something to make a small gesture that can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Thank you.”